The Doctrines arising herehence.
Doct. 1. The wicked of every latter age do in their courses imitate those wicked men, that lived before them.
This is gathered from these words: Following the way of Balaam.
For these men did not propose Balaam unto themselves for an example to imitate, but because they went in the same wayes, therefore they are said to have followed him. Reason 1. Because that in-bred corruption, from which such wicked courses are derived, as from their originall fountaine, is one and the same. For although it doth not work alwayes and in all altogether after the same manner, yet when it meets with natures alike, and the like occasions also happen, then it is no lesse like it selfe, then an egge is like an egge. 2. Because the same teacher of wickednesse, the tempter and old Serpent works effectually in his bond slaves throughout all ages. 3. Because oftentimes also the courses fore-going do not only by tradition, but by transmission as it were also beget courses like themselves. Vse 1. This may serve to enforme us, not to be too much troubled at the wickednesse of men, that live with us, because there is nothing new under the Sunne in that kinde. 2. To admonish us, not to expect any singular thing from wicked men, while they remaine such, above that which we read of other wicked men before them in ancient time. 3. To exhort us therefore, to labour to be like the ancient godly men, that are commended in Scripture. Doct. 2. This is common to all the wicked, to forsake the right way, and go astray in that which is not good.
This is gathered from these words, Which having forsaken the right way are gone astray.
Reason 1. Because the right way is in observing the will of God, or in doing the good works which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them, Ephes. 2.10. Psal. 119.1, 2, &c. But wickednesse is another crooked way, which men have found out themselves, cleane contrary to the will of God.
